Impact Quantum: A Podcast for the Quantum Curious

Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the show for everyone from the quantum curious to the truly entangled enthusiast. In this episode, we venture beyond Schrödinger’s cat and into the very real world of quantum-inspired engineering with guest Marouane Salhi, a physicist and CEO of Qubit Engineering. Hosted by Candace Gillhoolley, Frank La Vigne, and BAILeY, this conversation dives into how quantum optimization is already tackling some of the planet’s biggest infrastructure challenges—think wind farm layouts and power grid management—not with futuristic quantum computers, but with innovative quantum-inspired algorithms and simulators. Marouane walks us through the journey from theoretical quantum physics to practical engineering impact, revealing how “boring” problems like turbine arrangement and network switch toggling are paving the way for quantum innovation. The discussion covers the realities and myths of current quantum hardware, the rise of quantum-inspired solvers, and why interdisciplinary teamwork is essential for this fast-evolving field. Whether you’re a student, developer, investor, or just love to say “quantum” at dinner parties, this episode offers invaluable advice on how to get involved, what skills matter, and what the next 10 to 15 years of quantum technology might hold. Tune in for grounded insights, practical strategies, and a glimpse of how quantum thinking is quietly reshaping our world—sometimes, in the most surprisingly unglamorous corners. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Quantum Optimization Startup Leadership 03:53 Quantum Computing: Finding Use Cases 07:21 Turbine Hub Altitude and Size 12:00 Bridging Research Tools for Industry 16:15 Shift to Quantum-Inspired Solvers 18:27 "Quantum Solvers Improve Optimization" 23:14 Quantum Computing in Molecular Simulation 26:49 "Quantum Computing Development Insights" 28:55 Future of Quantum Engineering Insights 33:24 Rethinking Engineering Problem-Solving 37:28 Quantum Engineering Problem Optimization 41:28 "Start Preparing for Quantum Computing" 44:08 Interdisciplinary Collaborative Workforce Vision 47:02 Quantum Collaboration in Energy Solutions 49:32 "Embracing Quantum Tech Opportunities" 54:32 Advancing Understanding Through Complex Problems 57:20 Quantum's Present Impact

oday, we dive headfirst into the frontier of quantum technology with a special guest: Bert De Jong, senior scientist at Berkeley Lab and director of the Quantum Systems Accelerator, part of the U.S. Department of Energy's National Quantum Initiative. Join hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhooly—and our ever-charming, semi-sentient MC, Bailey—as we explore how Bert and his team are pushing the boundaries of quantum computing and sensing. From gravitational sensing with entangled atoms to real-time power grid monitoring, Bert explains how quantum sensing is already reshaping fields from resource discovery to national security, and even medical technology. We break down what quantum sensing actually is, how it could lead to miniaturization of sophisticated sensors, and why quantum’s impact is happening sooner than you might think. Whether you’re quantum-curious or quantum-confused, tune in for an engaging conversation that bridges the gap between cutting-edge research, real-world applications, and the evolving ecosystem of quantum information science. By the end of this episode, you’ll see that the quantum revolution isn’t some distant future—it’s knocking at our door, bringing opportunities (and challenges) for industries and individuals alike. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Quantum Systems Leadership at Berkeley 04:19 Revolutionizing Sensing with Quantum Information 09:53 Harnessing Quantum Entanglement Sensors 13:27 Miniaturization and Quantum Advancements 17:06 Advancing Medical Technology's Impact 19:12 Quantum Progress Happening Now 23:09 Bridging Academic and Commercial Gaps 25:44 Specialized Technologies Over Universal Solutions 28:26 Understanding Quantum Information Sciences 34:03 Qubit Stability and Challenges 36:53 Repetition Codes in Computing 39:29 Balancing Hype and Reality 42:48 Quantum Systems: From Theory to Application 44:58 Preparing for Quantum Computing's Future 48:16 Explore Quantum System Accelerator Opportunities

Welcome back to Impact Quantum, the podcast for the Quantum Curious! In this special recap episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley return from a brief, doctor-approved hiatus to take stock of the whirlwind developments in the quantum computing universe. From billion-dollar buyouts—like IONQ's acquisition of Oxford Ionics—to IBM’s bold promise of a large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer by 2029, the quantum ecosystem has never been more electrifying. Frank and Candice reflect on just how much the show—and the quantum landscape—has evolved, touching on everything from the international race for quantum supremacy and the looming threat to RSA encryption, to the latest breakthroughs in quantum error correction and the rise of “quantum tweezers.” With Canadian pride, global perspectives, and a healthy dose of friendly banter, they remind listeners why quantum is no longer a far-off dream—it’s knocking at our door. If you think quantum computing is decades away, this episode will convince you it’s time to update your calendar (and maybe your encryption protocols). Tune in for insights, laughs, and a sneak peek at what’s coming next from the #1 rated quantum computing podcast. Stay curious, stay entangled, and enjoy the ride! SHOW NOTES 00:00 Quantum Insights: Diverse Perspectives 05:06 Cryptography's Urgent Career Relevance 09:53 Exploring Quantum Computing Curiosity 12:39 Quantum Computing: Early Stages Discussion 13:59 Early Days of Quantum Computing 17:54 "Quantum Tech Secret Timeline" 20:34 "Quantum Season Preview" 25:34 Canada's Quantum Ambitions 27:55 Global Medicine Supply Chain Dependence 32:33 "Stay Curious, Stay Entangled" 33:17 "Bailey Signing Off"

In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candice Gillhoolley are joined by Andy Schwaderer and Dr. Christopher Leach from Quantum Knight. As the podcast celebrates its recent top ranking on Feedspot, the conversation dives deep into the urgent realities of post-quantum encryption, highlighting the evolving threats facing our digital lives—far beyond the stereotypical “hackers in hoodies.” Andy and Dr. Leach unpack why “being quantum ready isn’t optional, it’s essential,” sharing practical insights on defending against sophisticated adversaries, from nation-state actors to criminal gangs exploiting the cracks in legacy infrastructure. From the infamous Sony hack to modern ransomware attacks on hospitals and public utilities, the episode explores how Quantum Knight’s innovative cryptosystem aims to protect data across everything from IoT devices to critical medical systems. Tune in for a compelling discussion on why security can no longer be an afterthought, how agile cryptography is enabling a future-proof approach, and why the responsibility—and power—to keep data safe now rests firmly in the hands of every individual and organization. If you’ve ever wondered how quantum computing and cybersecurity overlap, or how to safeguard your most vital assets in the quantum era, this episode is for you. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Streamlined Quantum-Enhanced Data Security 08:26 "Data Control is King" 14:48 "Understanding Advanced Persistent Threats" 17:43 Quantum Computing's Impact on Cybersecurity 22:42 "IoT's Security Oversight" 32:15 "Admitting Issues, Seeking Solutions" 36:02 Cryptography's Limits and Access Control 39:31 Affordable Ransomware Protection Solution 48:55 Switching Accountants Mid-Service 51:35 Data Threat: Public Infrastructure Vulnerability 56:45 Versatile Cryptography Support System 01:02:19 AI Code Reliability Challenges 01:06:53 "Concerns About Health and Security"

In this episode, hosts Frank La Vigne and Candace Gillhoolley are joined by Nir Alfasi, the general manager of the Israeli Quantum Computing Center. Nir brings us insights straight from the forefront of quantum innovation—complete with a functioning quantum fridge in the background for that extra authentic touch. Together, the team dives deep into Israel’s rapidly evolving quantum scene, the role of quantum data centers, and why quantum innovation is blossoming far beyond the traditional tech hubs of Silicon Valley. Nir unpacks how the Israeli Quantum Computing Center is helping startups and researchers worldwide accelerate their breakthroughs, from providing a cryogenic test bed for hardware innovation to fostering quantum workforce development. He shares why collaboration is key, what makes a functional quantum ecosystem, and the importance of making quantum resources accessible to a global community—not just PhDs! If you’re curious about the present and future of quantum computing, the emerging ecosystems supporting it, and how quantum might just change not only how we compute but where the world’s tech epicenters will be, this conversation is a must-listen. So grab your coffee—or your cryogenic coolant—get ready to geek out, and let’s embark on our quantum journey! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 "Exploring Israel's Quantum Future" 04:10 Emerging Computing Paradigm Growth 08:46 Israeli Quantum Computing Center Launch 11:36 IQCC's Quantum Startup Support 15:45 Preparing for Quantum Technology Demands 16:47 "Bottleneck Opportunities in Quantum Computing" 22:52 Building a New Tech Ecosystem 25:26 "Diverse Technologies' Coexistence Potential" 27:01 Israel's Quiet Approach to Quantum Computing 30:10 "Building a Quantum-Ready Workforce" 36:03 Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing Approach 36:50 "Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing Integration" 40:08 Quantum Computers for Cloud Computing 44:27 "Future Progress and Storytelling" 47:25 "Quantum Conundrum: Stay Entangled"